Access to Media Events

Journalists and technicians are welcome to attend media events and will need one of the following as identification:

1)   A U.S. Government-issued photo identification card (White House, Department of Defense, Foreign Press Center, Congress);

2)   A media-issued photo identification card; or

3)    A letter on the employing media organization's letterhead, accompanied by an official photo identification (driver's license or passport). 

Between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., attendees should enter through the 23rd Street entrance - between D and C Streets NW.

A uniformed Protective Service Officer will issue a visitor's badge, valid for that day, which permits unescorted access to the Press Office, the Press Briefing Room, the Correspondent's Room where some reporters have office space, and the mezzanine balcony.  (Press are not allowed above 2nd floor. ) If an event is to be held elsewhere in the building, all press will be escorted by Department employees.

Camera set-up times and pick-up times for writers will be posted in the Daily Appointment Schedule (202-647-2497) or online. The Press Office will recommend that Diplomatic Security issue a long-term building pass to journalists and media technicians who demonstrate a frequent (two to three times per week) need to be in the State Department. Application forms are available from the Press Office, Room 2109, U.S. Department of State. Applicants must return completed forms to the Press Office in person, along with a letter from his/her employer and one passport-size photograph. Reporters for non-U.S.-based media organizations must bring a letter from the embassy of the country in which the organization is based attesting to the bona fides of the media organization. Issuance of the pass is contingent upon a background check by Diplomatic Security.